Portable fitness device

ABSTRACT

A portable fitness device and methods of preparing the portable fitness device for use are described. The portable fitness device provides a stable and safe yet portable platform for performing resistance exercises in a variety of remote outdoor and indoor locations. Some versions of the portable fitness device include a bar clamped to an adjustable vertical attachment, so that a user can perform pull-up exercises from the bar. Some versions of the device include a bar rack for supporting a barbell loaded with weight plates. The device may be coupled to a standard hitch receiver or other support and can be readily transported and used in a wide variety or outdoor and indoor settings.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent applicationto Jonathan James Young, Ser. No. 15/288,067 entitled “PORTABLE FITNESSDEVICE” filed Oct. 7, 2016, with U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/307,634,issuing Jun. 4, 2019, and further claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/284,683 filed Oct. 7, 2015 and entitled “HitchAdaptor Fitness Device,” each of which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Technical Field

This invention generally relates to fitness devices. Specifically, thisinvention relates to a portable fitness device that couples to a vehicletowing hitch.

State of the Art

Fitness training is highly beneficial for overall health in essentiallyall age groups and a popular activity. Resistance training is a type offitness training, which includes both body weight exercises, such aspullups, and weightlifting exercises. Effective resistance trainingconfers many health benefits; particularly, increases in strength,muscle size, increased bone density, increased metabolic rate, andincreased overall fitness. Variable combinations of standardized weightplates are mounted on opposing ends of a steel bar and held in placewith removable collars are used to provide resistance for hundreds ofdifferent “free-weight” training exercises. Weight racks and exerciseracks are available to facilitate resistance training exercises usingeither body weight or free weights. Examples include pull-ups, chestdips, leg squats and military shoulder presses.

Persons engaged in a program of resistance training seek to performtraining exercises on a daily basis, including while travelling.Available weight racks, however, are generally large, heavy, bulkystructures which are designed to be used in a fixed location and notreadily portable. Further, racks designed for portability are lighterand consequently less stable than fixed racks, limiting the amount ofweight which can be stably supported, whether in the form of plates on abarbell or the body weight of a person using the rack.

Accordingly, what is needed is a portable weight rack and exercisedevice system which is easy to assemble and disassemble, stable when inuse, and readily portable with a vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The foregoing application describes a portable fitness device, includingmethods of deployment for use and methods of disassembly for transport.The fitness device, as disclosed herein, utilizes a trailer hitchcoupled to a frame of the fitness device to stabilize the hitch as apoint of support and generally immovable support structure for thedevice. The frame is additionally supported by non-fixed, adjustablemembers, such as vertical members, resting on or otherwise engaging astable surface. Components of the portable fitness device areadjustable, wherein a portion of the weight of a vehicle bearing a hitchreceiver for coupling to the portable fitness device acts to apply ortransfer a force to the adjustable vertical members to firmly press thevertical members onto the stable surface. The portable fitness devicemay be used with various attachments in conjunction with options foradjustability, therein allowing a user to perform a vast array ofresistance training exercises comparable to those available through useof existing, non-portable weight racks. The portable fitness device isable to safely support loads comparable to existing non-portable racksystems without moving or tipping over when an unbalanced load ispresent at least to a degree equal to that found in existingnon-portable systems.

Disclosed is a portable fitness device comprising a connecting member;and a frame coupled to the connecting member, the frame comprising ahorizontal member; an adjustable attachment coupled to the horizontalmember; and a vertical member adapted to moveably couple with theadjustable attachment, wherein a ground end of the vertical memberengages a stable surface.

In some embodiments, the vertical member comprises a first sectionadjustably coupled to the adjustable attachment; and a second sectioncoupled to the first section.

In some embodiments, the adjustable attachment and the first sectioneach comprise a plurality of holes, and wherein the first section isadjustably coupled to the adjustable attachment by a pin removablycoupled through aligned holes of the adjustable attachment and the firstsection.

In some embodiments, the portable fitness device further comprises a barconnector coupled to the second section of the vertical member. In someembodiments, the portable fitness device of further comprises a rackmember coupled to the vertical member. In some embodiments, the rackmember is adjustably coupled to the vertical member.

In some embodiments, the frame comprises two horizontal members. In someembodiments, the frame further comprises a cross member coupled to thetwo horizontal members. In some embodiments, the connecting member iscoupled to a receiver.

In some embodiments, the receiver is coupled to a vehicle. In someembodiments, the receiver is coupled to a post of a support. In someembodiments, the receiver is coupled to a ground auger.

Disclosed is a method of deploying a portable fitness device for usecomprising the steps of mounting a connecting member of a framecomprising an adjustable attachment to a receiver coupled to a support;coupling a vertical member with the adjustable attachment; adjusting thevertical member with respect to the adjustable attachment; and lockingthe vertical member to the adjustable attachment.

In some embodiments, the support comprises a stationary vehicle. In someembodiments, the support comprises a post of a support. In someembodiments, the support comprises an auger support. In someembodiments, the method further comprises a step extending a secondsection of the vertical member with respect to a first section of thevertical member. In some embodiments, the method further comprises astep locking the second section with respect to the first section of thevertical member.

Disclosed is a method of transporting a portable fitness devicecomprising the steps of unlocking a vertical member from an adjustableattachment; disengaging the vertical member from the adjustableattachment; and stowing the vertical member for transport. In someembodiments, stowing the vertical member for transport comprisesmaintaining the frame coupled to a hitch receiver of the vehicle andcoupling the vertical member to the frame.

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will beapparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the following moreparticular description of the invention and the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived byreferring to the detailed description and claims when considered inconnection with the Figures, wherein like reference numbers refer tosimilar items throughout the Figures, and:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable fitness device coupled to ajack;

FIG. 2 is perspective view of a frame of a portable fitness devicecoupled to a jack;

FIG. 3 is a side-view of a vertical member of a portable fitness device;

FIG. 4 is a side view of a vertical member engaged with an adjustableattachment of a portable fitness device;

FIG. 5 is an exploded side view of a vertical member in proximity to anadjustable attachment of a portable fitness device;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a rack member of a portable fitnessdevice engaged with a barbell;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a rack member coupled to a verticalmember of a portable fitness device;

FIG. 8 is a side view of a barbell collar for a barbell used with aportable fitness device;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portable fitness device coupled to asupport;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portable fitness device coupled to anauger support;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a barbell connector for a portablefitness device in a closed position;

FIG. 12 is a side view of a barbell connector of a portable fitnessdevice in a closed position;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a barbell connector of a portablefitness device in an open position;

FIG. 14 is a flow-chart representing a method 200 of deployment for useof a portable fitness device; and

FIG. 15 is a flow-chart representing a method 300 of disassembly fortransport of a portable fitness device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

As noted herein above, embodiments of the present invention relate tofitness racks. Specifically, this invention relates to a fitness rackwhich couples to a vehicle towing trailer hitch receiver or similarreceiver device. The capability to couple to a standard, widelyavailable trailer hitch receiver facilitates fixation and stabilizationof the portable fitness device when in use, following transport.Additionally, depending on the type of hitch receiver/hitch combinationused, some embodiments of the portable fitness device are disassembledwith the several pieces of the portable fitness device secured to aframe which remains coupled to a vehicle's hitch receiver duringtransport.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a portable fitness device coupled to ajack. FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a portable fitness device 100comprising a frame 101. Frame 101 is a foundational structural componentof portable fitness device 100 and comprises a connecting member 102removably coupled to a vertical member 108. A bar 125 is shown coupledto two vertical members 108 in the example embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

Because portable fitness device 100 is intended to be a readily portabledevice, coupling portable fitness device 100 to a stationary supportwhile in use is important. A stationary support, such as a parked motorvehicle, a fixed post, or the like, provides a support structure forportable fitness device 100. It is understood that some supportstructures may be rigid, and among rigid support structures, some aremore rigid than others. For example, a fixed post bolted to a concretefloor is essentially immobile, while a hitch receiver on an automobileor similar motor vehicle may be moved for a limited vertical orhorizontal distance due to some “play” inherently present within thevehicle's suspension and drive system. Regardless, support structure isnecessary for use with portable fitness device 100 in order to supportseveral hundred pounds or more of weight while in use without shiftingposition or tipping.

Connecting member 102 operates to removably couple frame 101 of portablefitness device 100 to such a stationary support. In some embodiments,connecting member 102 comprises a square member that may be coupled to ahitch receiver attached to a vehicle, to a jack, to a support post, toan auger support and the like. It is to be understood that theembodiments shown and described in this disclosure are by way of exampleonly and not meant to be limiting.

FIG. 1 additionally shows an example embodiment comprising two verticalmembers 108, which supports barbell 125. Vertical members 108 areadjustable with respect to frame 101 via an adjustable attachment 104,which is discussed in detail herein below (See discussion herein belowof FIG. 2 and FIG. 4). The adjusting capability provided by adjustableattachment 104 allows for vertical member 108 to adjust in its positionwith respect to frame 101 while engaging a stable surface 107, shown inFIG. 1, to further support and maintain portable fitness device 100 in asubstantially stable position during use, including under a conditionwherein stable surface 107 is not level or is uneven. FIG. 1additionally shows a rack member 117 for supporting a barbell 125.

As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, frame 101 comprises a horizontal member103 coupled to an adjustable attachment 104. In some embodiments, suchas the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, frame 101 comprises twohorizontal members 103, each coupled to an adjustable attachment 104.Further, horizontal member 103 may also be coupled to connecting member102. Frame 101 may additionally comprise a cross member 105 coupled totwo horizontal members 103. The example embodiments of frame 101 shownin the drawing figures are not meant to be limiting, rather frame 101may comprise two or more horizontal members 103, two or more crossmembers 105, or two or more horizontal members 103 and two or more crossmembers 105. The distinction between horizontal member 103 and crossmember 105 is that horizontal member 103 is coupled to adjustableattachment 104 and cross member 105 is coupled a horizontal member 103,or an additional cross member 105. Unlike in the embodiment shown inFIG. 2, cross member 105 need not be coupled to two horizontal members.

For example, cross member 105, in some embodiments, is coupled to onehorizontal member and an additional structure. The additional structuremay include connecting member 102 or a second cross member 105. In someembodiments, a single horizontal member may be coupled at any pointalong its length to connecting member 102.

In some embodiments, horizontal member 103 is not coupled to connectingmember 102, but coupled to cross member 105. Cross member 105 may becoupled to two horizontal members 103 and connecting member 102.Connecting member 102 may be coupled to two horizontal members 103.Connecting member 102 may be coupled to cross member 105 at any pointalong the length of cross member 105, and not to horizontal member 103.

Many possible configurations of frame 101 are possible within the scopeof the invention. In some embodiments, the configurations of frame 101include the generally open triangular shape shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2.In some alternative embodiments, frame 101 is configured in arectangular shape, other polygonal shapes, or a combination of shapeswithin shapes similar to a system of trusses or related frame systems ofload-bearing, force-distributing members coupled to one another, forexample.

The elements of frame 101 are formed from materials which are generallystrong and rigid. For example and without limitation, elements formingframe 101 may comprise metal or metal alloys, such as various steelalloys, which are rectangular in cross section. In some embodiments,elements of frame 101 are formed in an alternate polygonal, elliptical,or generally flat cross section. Further, elements forming frame 101 maybe coupled to one another by welding; by fasteners, such as with screws,bolts, clips, clamps, or the like; by epoxy; by annealing; or the like.In some embodiments, elements forming frame 101 are fixedly coupledtogether. In some embodiments, elements forming frame 101 are removablycoupled together. Additional possible materials used in the formation offrame 101 and means of coupling members of frame 101 together arefurther described herein below.

FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 show a jack 170 coupled to connecting member 102. Inthis example embodiment, jack 170 provides a means of supporting frame101 of portable fitness device 100. A bottle-type hand-operatedhydraulic jack is shown in the drawing figures, however this is notmeant to be limiting. Other supports, including other types of jacks,bricks or cinderblocks, wood such as railroad ties, or other supportingmeans may be used to support connecting member 102 of frame 101.

FIG. 3 is a side-view of a vertical member of a portable fitness device;FIG. 4 is a side view of a vertical member engaged with an adjustableattachment of a portable fitness device; and FIG. 5 is an exploded sideview of a vertical member in proximity to an adjustable attachment of aportable fitness device. As is shown by FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. 5,vertical member 108 may be coupled with adjustable attachment 104 in asliding engagement, wherein vertical member 108 passes through anaperture of adjustable attachment 104. Vertical member 108 in thissliding engagement is an example of adjustably coupling vertical member108 to adjustable attachment 104.

As shown in FIG. 9, an embodiment of connecting member 102 is coupled toa support 140. In this embodiment, frame 101 is also coupled to verticalmembers 108 with adjustable attachment 104 to hold frame 101 generallyin a horizontal plane. Vertical members 108 may be coupled withadjustable attachment 104 such that a ground end 112 of vertical member108 engages stable surface 107. When portable fitness device 100 is inuse, frame 101 is supported by support 140 and ground end 112 ofvertical member 108 engaging a stable surface 107 (see FIG. 1), such asthe ground, a parking lot or other paved surface; or a floor, such ascan be found in the interior of a gym, a garage, a warehouse, a barn,and the like, for example. Adjustability of the coupling betweenvertical member 108 and adjustable attachment 104, in some embodimentsallows for use of portable fitness device 100 on any variety of stablesurface 107, including indoor surfaces, outdoor surfaces, pavedsurfaces; bare ground including soil, dirt, rock, sand, or gravel; lawnand similar outdoor planted surfaces; and the like. Embodiments ofportable fitness device 100 may be used on sand at the beach, in aparking lot, on a basketball court, at a campground in the forest or themountains, etc.

Each adjustable attachment 104 may be coupled to a horizontal member 103and functions to adjustably couple with vertical member 108. Theadjustable attachment 104 permits vertical member 108 to move withrespect to adjustable attachment 104 such that ground end 112 ofvertical member 108 is adjusted to engage stable surface 107, such asthe ground, and to maintain the frame 101 in a generally horizontalplane prior to the use of portable fitness device 100. In the exampleembodiment shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, and in some other embodiments,adjustable attachment 104 comprises a generally tubular member coupledto horizontal member 103 of frame 101. Neither the tubular nature ofadjustable attachment 104 nor a sliding engagement between adjustableattachment 104 and vertical member 108 are meant to be limiting. In someembodiments, for example, the coupling means of vertical member 108 andadjustable attachment 104 is a combination of a groove feature locatedon either vertical member 108 or adjustable attachment 104 and acorresponding rail or pin-type component on either vertical member 108or adjustable attachment 104. In some embodiments, adjustable attachment104 may be a U-channel shape that receives vertical member 108 along asegment length of vertical member 108 through an open-side structure ofadjustable attachment 104 (not shown). Some other embodiments ofportable fitness device 100 comprise alternative means for engaging andcoupling vertical member 108 to adjustable attachment 104.

Accordingly, when assembling portable fitness device 100 for use,vertical member 108 is moved in position with respect to adjustableattachment 104 to engage stable surface 107. In some embodiments (notshown by the drawing figures), ground end 112 of vertical member 108 isfitted with a pad, plate, foot, or analogous structure wherein verticalmember 108 engages stable surface 107 through the pad, plate, foot, oranalogous structure. Vertical member 108 and adjustable attachment 104are then removably coupled to one another by an adjustment system. Insome embodiments, this adjustment system comprises a plurality of holes122 in adjustable attachment 104 corresponding to an additionalplurality of holes 122 in vertical member 108. In these, and some otherembodiments, a hole 122 of adjustable attachment 104 is aligned with acorresponding hole 123 in vertical member 108 and the aligned holes 122and 123 are engaged by a pin 114 (as shown by FIG. 1), thus removablycoupling vertical member 108 to adjustable attachment 104 and retainingthe respective position of vertical member 108 with adjustableattachment 104. In some embodiments, adjustable attachment 104 andvertical member 108 do not comprise holes 122 and 123 respectively;rather, an alternative adjustable coupling system is employed toreleasably couple adjustable attachment 104 to vertical member 108. Forexample, in some embodiments, vertical member 108 comprises a removableand adjustable compression clamp (not shown but discussed by way ofexample) placed on vertical member 108 at a point between adjustableattachment 104 and stable surface 107 where vertical member 108 exitsadjustable attachment 104, thus removably coupling adjustable attachment104 onto vertical member 108 in a manner to maintain engagement ofground end 112 of vertical member 108 with stable surface 107.

In the embodiment shown by FIG. 3, and in some other embodiments,vertical member 108 comprises a unitary body. In a non-limiting example,this unitary body is a single substantially elongated member formed of arigid material, such as, but not limited to, steel or other suitablematerial and comprising a cross-sectional shape generally correspondingto adjustable attachment 104. In some other embodiments, however,vertical member 108 comprises a first section 109 and a second section110, as shown by FIG. 4 and FIG. 5. In these, and some otherembodiments, first section 109 comprises ground end 112. Second section110 is telescopically coupled with first section 109 of vertical member108. In some embodiments, second section 110 is detachable from firstsection 109 and may be completely removed for storage alongside firstsection 109, versus being stored in telescopic connection with firstsection 109.

In some embodiments, first section 109 and second section 110 eachcomprise an adjustment system wherein the position of second section 110to first section 109 may be releasably fixed. For example, a user maychoose to partially telescope second section 110 from first section 109creating a total length (height) of vertical member 108 preferable tothe user. The user then engages the adjustment system to releasablyretain the position of second section 10 with respect to first section 9to maintain the desired total length of vertical member 108. The usermay then proceed to use portable fitness device 100 by engaging invarious exercises. The total length of vertical member 108 chosen by theuser will depend upon the height and body measurements of the particularuser as well as the particular exercise the user is preparing to executeon portable fitness device 100. The adjustment system allows the user toeasily and quickly change the total length of vertical member 108comprising first section 109 and second section 110 between selectedexercises. In some embodiments, such as those shown in the variousdrawing figures, for example, the adjustment system comprises aplurality of holes 123 in section 109 and a plurality of holes 124 insection 110 and a pin 118. In some embodiments, the pin 118 may becoupled to a rack member 117 (discussed further herein below; see FIG. 6and FIG. 7). Hole 124 in second section 110 is aligned withcorresponding hole 123 in first section 109 and pin 118 is then insertedthrough each of the aligned holes 123 and 124, retaining second section110 in a position relative to first section 109 to create an overalllength of vertical member 108 as chosen by the user. This exampleadjustment system comprising holes 123 in first section 109, holes 124in second section 110 and pin 118 is not, however, meant to be limiting.Some embodiments of portable fitness device 100 comprise alternativeadjustment systems for adjusting the overall length of vertical member108, such as a compression collar adjusting means, corresponding screwthreads between first section 109 and section 110, and the like. In someembodiments, pin 114, or a similar device, functions like pin 118 bypassing through aligned corresponding holes 123 and 124 of first section109 and second section 110 respectively to fix the relative position offirst section 109 with respect to second section 110, wherein theoverall length (height) of vertical member 108 is temporarily fixed.Such an adjustment system comprises a simple, sturdy, and generally safeand reliable adjustment means for allowing a user to determine anoverall length (height) of vertical member 108 of portable fitnessdevice 100.

In some embodiments, adjustable attachment 104 is a generally tubularstructure such that, under a condition wherein portable fitness device100 is in an assembled configuration, vertical member 108 slidablypasses through an aperture extending through the tubular member ofadjustable attachment 104. In some embodiments, adjustable attachment104 is formed from similar materials as horizontal member 103 and crossmember 105 of frame 101. In some embodiments, adjustable attachment 104comprises a cross-sectional shape, such as the generally a rectilinearshape as shown in FIG. 2, similar to horizontal member 103. In someembodiments, adjustable attachment 104 comprises a differentcross-sectional shape than horizontal member 103. Regardless, in theexample embodiments shown in the drawing figures and some otherembodiments, the cross-sectional shape and the shape of the aperture ofthe tubular member of adjustable attachment 104 must be of a compatibleshape and size to receive vertical member 108 there through.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a rack member 117 coupled to a verticalmember 108 of a portable fitness device 100. As shown by FIG. 7 (andFIG. 1), rack member 117 may be coupled to vertical member 108 byinserting pin 118 through holes 122 of the vertical member, in someembodiments. Pin 118 removably couples rack member 117 on verticalmember 108 in order to support the weight of bar 125 individually orloaded with weight plates (not shown). Side flange 119 rotationallystabilizes rack member 117 on vertical member 108 by preventingrotational movement in one direction or rack member 117 on pin 118. Anexample shape and configuration of rack member 117 is shown in FIG. 7,however this is not meant to be limiting. Other shapes of rack member117 are possible which allow a barbell 125 to passively rest upon rackmember 117 supported by vertical member 108 wherein the user of portablefitness device 100 may simply lift the barbell 125 free of rack member117 to perform any variety of free-weight lifting exercises.

FIG. 7 is a side view of a barbell collar for a barbell used with aportable fitness device and FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a barbellrack coupled to a vertical member of a portable fitness device. FIG. 7shows barbell collar 126 comprising collar pin 127. Barbell collar 126,in some embodiments, is coupled to bar 125 and facilitates stabilizationof bar 125 on rack member 217 (see FIG. 8) by removably engaging collarpin 127 with aperture 120 of rack member 217. As shown by FIG. 8, bar125 is resting on two racks members 217. Each rack member 217 maycomprise a pin 118, a side flange 219 and an aperture 120. Aperture 120may receive a collar pin 127 wherein bar 125 is stabilized on rackmember 217. Collar pin 127 engages aperture 120, in some embodiments, toresist rotation or disengagement of bar 125 from rack member 217 duringperiods wherein a user of portable fitness device 100 wishes to rack abarbell 125, such as when resting between sets or between exercises.Rack member 217 supports a portion of a barbell 125 loaded with weightplates (not shown) on vertical member 108. This permits the user ofportable fitness device 100 to lift a loaded barbell 125 up from apre-established height off of rack member 217 in order to performexercises such as a military shoulder press, squats, lunges, arm curls,and the like.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a portable fitness device coupled to asupport. FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a support 140 comprising a post116 coupled to a receiver 135 at one end and fixedly coupled to stablesurface 107 at the opposite end. Post 141, in some embodiments, isbolted to a concrete floor, such as an outdoor concrete surface like aparking lot, a patio, a concrete pad, and the like. Alternatively, post141 is bolted to an asphalt-paved surface. Still other embodiments ofsupport 140 comprise post 116 set directly in concrete, asphalt, or thelike. In some embodiments, post 116 is coupled to a wall of a buildingor similar structure and juts out from the wall wherein receiver 135 isfixed in position to present a fixed mounting point for connectingmember 102 of portable fitness device 100. Example descriptions foundherein of the point and manner of fixation of post 116 are not meant tobe limiting. In these and some other embodiments, connecting member 102of portable fitness device 100 is coupled to receiver 135 of support140, wherein frame 101 is rendered relatively fixed, stable, andimmovable, preparing portable fitness device 100 for use.

Receiver 135 that receives connecting member 102 may be coupled todifferent supporting means, depending upon use of a particularembodiment of portable fitness device 100. For example, in someembodiments, receiver 135 is coupled to a vehicle. In some embodiments,receiver 135 is coupled to post 141 of support 140 coupled, in turn, toa paved surface, a floor, the ground, and the like. Examples of theseembodiments are now discussed to illustrate the possible use of manydifferent means of fixing and stabilizing portable fitness device 100 toa great variety of structures, including both outdoor and indoorstructures and locations as already discussed herein above.

In such embodiments (as shown in FIG. 1) wherein receiver 135 is coupledto a vehicle 200, frame 101 is substantially fixed in position under acondition wherein frame 101 is coupled to the vehicle 200 via connectingmember 102. In embodiments where receiver 135 is coupled to vehicle 200,receiver 135 may be a standard hitch receiver. The vehicle 200 may beany automobile, including, but not limited to, a car, a van, a pick-uptruck, a sport utility vehicle, other kinds of trucks, or other vehiclebearing a hitch receiver. In these and some other embodiments, a portionof the vehicle's 200 weight, via the suspension system of the vehicle,is utilized to impart additional stability to portable fitness device100. After engagement of stable surface 107 by vertical member 108 andprior to coupling vertical member 108 to adjustable attachment 104,upward pressure may be applied to frame 101 wherein the vehicle islifted, somewhat, using the vehicle's suspension. Vertical member 108 isthen coupled to adjustable attachment 104 and the upward pressure onframe 101 is released. In this manner, a portion of the vehicle's weightcreates a force that is transferred to ground end 112 of vertical member108, pressing ground end 112 against stable surface 107 and adding tothe stability of portable fitness device when in use. In other words, inorder to transfer a force from a portion of the weight of the vehicle orforce from another support, the adjustable attachment 104 is coupled tothe vertical member 108 in a position slightly above or otherwise abovethe horizontal plane of the frame, wherein the rigidity of the frame 101transfers the force from the support to the vertical member 108.

Stabilization of portable fitness device 100 need not comprise couplingconnecting member 102 to receiver 135 mounted on a vehicle.Alternatively, receiver 135 may be coupled to post 141 of support 140,wherein support 140 may be coupled to stable surface 107 by a mount 142,as shown in FIG. 9. In some embodiments, receiver 135 may be coupled toan auger support 150, as shown in FIG. 10 and discussed herein below.Examples wherein receiver 135 is not coupled to a vehicle 200, butrather is coupled to a post 141 or auger support 150 are discussed ingreater detail herein below. It should be appreciated that portablefitness device 100 is stabilized for use in performing resistancetraining exercises in part by coupling connecting member 102 to receiver135.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portable fitness device coupled to anauger support. FIG. 10, shows an embodiment of a support comprising anauger support 150 having an auger 151. Auger support 150 is coupled toreceiver 135 at one end and coupled to stable surface 107 at theopposite end by auger 151. When preparing receiver 135 for use on stablesurface 107 which is unpaved, such as bare ground, a lawn, or the like,the user may couple auger support 150 to the stable surface 107 byoperating auger 151 to screw auger 151 into stable surface 107. Once theauger 150 is coupled to the stable surface 107, the portable fitnessdevice 100 may be assembled as previously described.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a barbell connector member of aportable fitness device, showing a bar connector 160. FIG. 12 is a sideview of a barbell connector of a portable fitness device in a closedposition; and FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a barbell connector of aportable fitness device in an open position. In some embodiments of theinvention, bar connector 160 is coupled to vertical member 108 oppositeand remote from ground end 112 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Bar connector160 removably couples bar 125 to either second section 110 of verticalmember 108, or directly to vertical member 108. FIG. 11, FIG. 12, andFIG. 13 additionally show bar connector 160 comprising a connector hinge161 and a bar lock 162. Bar connector 160 is a connecting means whereinbar 125 is linearly and rotatably fixed to vertical member 108, in someembodiments. It should be noted that bar 125 comprises any standard,commercially available barbell bar, in some embodiments, and thatportable fitness device 100 may simultaneously comprises two bars 125—abar 125 resting on rack member 117 and a second bar 125 coupled to barconnector 160. The structure and elements of bar connector 160 areprovided by way of example only; alternative means to fix bar 125 tovertical member 108 may be used in some other embodiments.

Bar 125, in some embodiments, is a standard barbell bar. For example,bar 125 comprises a generally elongate, cylindrical steel bar with across-sectional diameter of between about 26 millimeters and 30millimeters, by way of a non-limiting example. Bar connector 160, insome embodiments, may include a locking-jar collar, a bar-lock, abarbell lock, a bar clamp, and the like. Under a condition wherein bar125 is clamped into position by bar connector 160, a user may utilizeportable fitness device 100 to safely perform pull-up exercises, forexample.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing steps of a method 200 of preparing aportable fitness device for use. A portable fitness device may bedeployed by a user in a variety of different locations with variablecharacteristic of the ground, pavement, or other stable resting surfaceupon which the portable fitness device rests and is to be used. Method200 comprises a mounting step 210, a coupling step 220, an adjustingstep 230, and a transferring step 240.

Mounting step 210 comprises mounting a hitch of a frame comprising anadjustable attachment to a receiver coupled to a support. As discussedherein above, mounting a portable fitness device to a receiver coupledto a support can take many forms, depending on the nature of thesupport. In some embodiments, mounting step 210 is performed outdoors.In some embodiments, including, for example, embodiments wherein thesupport is bolted to a floor surface of a garage, a warehouse, a gym, orthe like, mounting step 210 is performed indoors. In some embodiments,mounting step 210 comprises a user inserting a connecting member into areceiver coupled to a support, such as a vehicle, a post, an augersupport, or the like; and coupling the connecting member in thereceiver, such as, but not limited to, by inserting a locking pin orsimilar locking means through both the connecting member and thereceiver. Mounting step 210, however, need not be limited to a vehicle,as described in detail repeatedly herein. Moreover, the use of a hitchreceiver mechanism is offered as an example only and is in no wayintended to be limiting. Other suitable means, both commerciallyavailable and those which may become available in the future, forcoupling the portable fitness device to a vehicle may also be used.

Coupling step 220 of method 200 comprises coupling a vertical member toan adjustable attachment. The vertical member may be coupled by engaginga pin through corresponding holes in the vertical member and theadjustable attachment. This is not meant to be limiting, but ratherother coupling means may be utilized when performing coupling step 220,including but not limited, to rail-and-groove features, pin-and-groovefeatures, and the like. Regardless of the particular coupling meansused, coupling step 220 comprises the user engaging the vertical memberwith the adjustable attachment.

Adjusting step 230 of method 200 comprises adjusting the verticalmembers with respect to the adjustable attachments. In some embodiments,adjusting step 230 comprises moving the adjustable attachments withrespect to the vertical members such that an adjustment system, such ascorresponding holes in the adjustable attachment and the verticalmember, become aligned and a pin inserted there through. Duringadjusting step 230, a ground end of the vertical member engages a stablesurface and a frame of the portable fitness device is held in agenerally horizontal plane in response to adjusting the vertical memberwith respect to the adjustable attachment. Again, as already discussedherein above, the stable surface may comprise the ground, a floor, apaved surface such as a parking lot or patio, a gym floor, a garagefloor, and the like, without limitation. The only requirement is thatthe stable surface be relatively stable, meaning able to support theportable fitness device without substantial movement so as to render useof the portable fitness device unsafe. Some non-limiting examples of astable surface are sand at the beach, loose gravel in a parking lot, andthe like.

Transferring step 240 of method 200 comprises transferring a force fromthe support to the vertical member in response to locking the verticalmember to the adjustable attachment. In some embodiments wherein thereceiver is coupled to a vehicle, a portion of the weight of the vehiclemay create a force that is applied through the frame of the portablefitness device and transferred to the ground end of the vertical memberresponse to locking the vertical member to the adjustable attachment,thereby applying a force at the ground end against the stable surface inaddition to the weight of the vertical member and force applied from theweight of the frame. In this and other such embodiments, the user exertsan upward force, either on the frame of the portable fitness device oron the vehicle prior to locking the vertical member to the adjustableattachment. Locking and then releasing the upward pressure causes theweight of the vehicle to transfer to the ground end of the verticalmember.

In some embodiments, method 200 additionally comprises an extending step250. Extending step 250, in some embodiments, comprises extending asecond section of the vertical member relative to a first section of thevertical member. In some embodiments, extending step 250 comprisesincreasing the overall length (height) of the vertical member. In someembodiments, extending step 250 comprises coupling the second sectionwith respect to the first section in the extended position by insertinga pin through corresponding holes of the first section and the secondsection of the vertical member. In some embodiments, coupling the secondsection with the first section in the extended position may be performedin other ways as previously described.

In some embodiments, method 200 additionally comprises a clamping step260. Clamping step 260 comprises clamping a bar into a bar connector. Insome embodiments, clamping step 260 comprises clamping a standardbarbell bar into the bar connector.

FIG. 15 is a flow-chart representing a method 300 of disassembly fortransport of a portable fitness device. Method 300 comprises anunlocking step 310, a disengaging step 320, and a stowing step 330.

Unlocking step 310 of method 300 comprises unlocking a vertical memberfrom an adjustable attachment, in some embodiments. In some embodiments,unlocking comprises removing a pin. In some embodiment's, unlockingcomprises releasing a clamp. In some embodiment's, unlocking comprisereleasing an alternate locking means from vertical member or adjustableattachment.

Disengaging step 320 of method 300 comprises disengaging and removingthe vertical member from the adjustable attachment.

Stowing step 330 comprises stowing the vertical member for transport. Insome embodiments, stowing comprises coupling the vertical member to aframe of the portable fitness device in a stowed position. For example,in some embodiments, the frame is coupled to a hitch receiver of avehicle, wherein the frame extends rigidly outward from the rear of thevehicle, wherein the frame supports one or two vertical members andadditional components of the portable fitness device for transportbehind the vehicle to form the stowed position.

A portable fitness device and methods of preparing the portable fitnessdevice for use have been described. The portable fitness device solvesthe problems present in the prior art of providing a stable and safe yetportable platform for performing resistance exercises in a variety ofremote outdoor and indoor locations.

The components defining any portable fitness device may be formed of anyof many different types of materials or combinations thereof that canreadily be formed into shaped objects provided that the componentsselected are consistent with the intended operation of a portablefitness device. For example, the components may be formed of: rubbers(synthetic and/or natural) and/or other like materials; glasses (such asfiberglass) carbon-fiber, aramid-fiber, any combination thereof, and/orother like materials; polymers such as thermoplastics (such as ABS,Fluoropolymers, Polyacetal, Polyamide; Polycarbonate, Polyethylene,Polysulfone, and/or the like), thermosets (such as Epoxy, PhenolicResin, Polyimide, and/or the like), any combination thereof, and/orother like materials; composites and/or other like materials; metals,such as titanium, iron, steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel,stainless steel, aluminum, any combination thereof, and/or other likematerials; alloys, such as aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, magnesiumalloy, copper alloy, any combination thereof, and/or other likematerials; any other suitable material; and/or any combination thereof.

Furthermore, the components defining any portable fitness device may bepurchased pre-manufactured or manufactured separately and then assembledtogether. However, any or all of the components may be manufacturedsimultaneously and integrally joined with one another. Manufacture ofthese components separately or simultaneously may involve extrusion,pultrusion, vacuum forming, injection molding, blow molding, resintransfer molding, casting, forging, cold rolling, milling, drilling,reaming, turning, grinding, stamping, cutting, bending, welding,soldering, hardening, riveting, punching, plating, and/or the like. Ifany of the components are manufactured separately, they may then becoupled with one another in any manner, such as with adhesive, a weld, afastener (e.g. a bolt, a nut, a screw, a nail, a rivet, a pin, and/orthe like), wiring, any combination thereof, and/or the like for example,depending on, among other considerations, the particular materialforming the components. Other possible steps might include sandblasting, polishing, powder coating, zinc plating, anodizing, hardanodizing, and/or painting the components for example.

The embodiments and examples set forth herein were presented in order tobest explain the present invention and its practical application and tothereby enable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use theinvention. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognizethat the foregoing description and examples have been presented for thepurposes of illustration and example only. The description as set forthis not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to theprecise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possiblein light of the teachings above.

1. A method of deploying a portable fitness device for use comprisingthe steps of: mounting a connecting member of a frame comprising anadjustable attachment to a receiver coupled to a support; coupling avertical member with the adjustable attachment; adjusting the verticalmember with respect to the adjustable attachment; and transferring aforce from the support to the vertical member in response to locking thevertical member to the adjustable attachment.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the support comprises a vehicle.
 3. The method of claim 1,wherein the support comprises a post of a support.
 4. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the support comprises an auger support.
 5. The methodof claim 1, further comprising extending a second section of thevertical member with respect to a first section of the vertical member.6. The method of claim 5, further comprising clamping a bar into a barconnector
 7. A method of transporting a portable fitness devicecomprising the steps of: unlocking a vertical member from an adjustableattachment; disengaging the vertical member from the adjustableattachment; stowing the vertical member for transport.
 8. The method ofclaim 7, wherein stowing the vertical member for transport comprisesmaintaining the frame coupled to a hitch receiver of the vehicle andcoupling the vertical member to the frame.